Waltham senator praises disability legislation

Monday

Aug 18, 2014 at 3:00 PM

People with developmental disabilities will soon be free to select their own services, thanks to a bill sponsored by state Rep. Tom Sannicandro, D-Ashland, and fleshed out in the Senate by Sen. Mike Barrett, D-Lexington, and his staff on the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities, according to Barrett's office.The so-called "Real Lives" bill made it through just minutes before the Legislature completed a post-midnight session to adjourn for the year. It creates a "self-determination" option for anyone who qualifies for support from the state Department of Developmental Services (DDS)."In the past, people have had to accept services more or less as they’ve been handed to them," said Barrett, who represents Waltham. "Choices have been somewhat limited. We’re flipping that model on its head."This is an experiment in consumer control and consumer choice. We’re giving clients and their families control of the fractional share of the state budget that buys their residential and day services. Clients and families can stay with the service providers they have or meet their needs in a totally different way."For example, Barrett said, "A client can say, ‘You know what, I like to swim. My local gym has a pool. I choose to spend some of my money there.’ Even if the gym in question doesn’t have a contract today with DDS, the client can use those local services."To make sure the new law stays on track and the state’s money gets spent for valid purposes, spending decisions will be audited at regular intervals, according to Barrett’s office. A diverse advisory board, drawn from families and the private sector, will generate feedback to DDS. Participants will have the use of service coordinators and financial management services, both of which must be independent of the providers used.As the governor signed the bill and it became law, Barrett directed praise at its chief sponsor."Rep. Sannicandro’s intensity and focus made the difference," Barrett said. "It's a long road from vision to law, and most ideas, even the good ones, don't make it. This idea did. Now thousands of Mass. citizens with cognitive challenges will operate as empowered consumers in a responsive marketplace."Barrett also offered "a special tip of the hat to Sen. Karen Spilka, D-Ashland, who helped me shepherd the bill through the Senate."